How to succeed at job interviews

Do you want to be successful at your next job interview and to get the job? Below are some interview principles that will help you do so.

Make the “Fit Test“: Be absolutely sure that the position and company you are applying for really fits with your skills, career track, professional and personal objectives, beliefs and experiences. If not, do not move on and do not waste your time nor anyone else´s by wanting to conduct an interview. It is only when you are sure of yourself that you will succeed and radiate in the interview and the interviewer will realize very quickly how passionate you are about the company and about the offered position.

Research the Target Company: Study the company’s values, mission statement, leadership principles, products, etc. Review its internet site and read the latest press releases. Have an idea about what its competitors are doing, what its current and future challenges could look like? It´s not about being an expert about the company it´s more about having acquired a comprehensive knowledge before the interview.

Know your interviewer(s):Conduct a research using the internet and the social media about titles, roles, careers, etc. of all the people who´ll interview you. Showing the interviewers that you know a little bit about their careers, achievements, is a sign of respect and interest and will be perceived positively.

ArriveOn Time: Avoid all the elements that can prevent you from arriving on time at the interview (heavy traffic at a certain time of the day, not knowing the exact address, waking up late, etc.). Good employers will appreciate this professional attitude.

Adjust Your Appearance, Style and Tone: Choose the right outfit for your interview. Do not wear a short-sleeved shirt, no tie and a casual pair of trousers when meeting for a job interview with one of the country´s top insurance companies. Pay also attention to the vocabulary you´re using. Use words and expressions that are common in the target company, its markets, and its industry. Be aware that the first impression you show when meeting for the very first time the interviewer counts and will be remembered for a long time.

Know yourself and The Value You Might be Adding: Make sure that you know your strengths before going to any interview and that you have a clear understanding about what your target company is looking for. Keep in mind that you would need to be able to explain why you believe that you´re the one “deserving” the job.Anticipate Questions: Write down possible questions, formulate answers, and even rehearse some of them. Stay flexible during the interview.

Stay Open-Minded, Positive, And Always Engaged: Always display interest, engagement, and friendly open-mindedness, regardless of how the interview goes. The interview could be considered as an opportunity to learn and to grow. Smile and do not forget about your body language, which is an important part of communication. Do not be afraid to ask your questions: It´s what every experienced interviewer would expect from you.

Be Yourself And Do Not Pretend: Do not pretend to be someone else just to get the job. Do not give up easily your fundamental values and convictions. Leave out emotions, politics, and any extreme thoughts and positions.

Finish the Interview in Style: Regardless of how the interview went, it is fundamental to express your gratitude for the interview and to courteously say goodbye.